Bible Study – Best Practices

1. Read every passage in context.
2. Let Scripture interpret Scripture.
   Acts 17:11, Isaiah 28:9-10, 2 Peter 1:20
3. Establish doctrine with more than one witness.
   2 Corinthians 13:1, Revelation 11:3
4. Seek harmony across the whole witness of Scripture.
   Matthew 4:4, 2 Timothy 3:16-17
5. Do not go beyond what is written.
   1 Corinthians 4:6, Revelation 22:18

1. Compare multiple translations. Since no translation is perfect, it helps to read a passage in more than one kind of translation so that the meaning can be weighed more carefully and in harmony with the rest of Scripture. See Core Principle #4.

• Functional equivalence, for example NIV.
• Formal equivalence, for example NASB.
• Free translation, for example The Message.

2. Pay attention to important Hebrew and Greek words. Lexicons, interlinear tools, and word studies can help, but they should support careful exegesis rather than replace it. In many cases, Scripture itself helps define how a word is being used. See Core Principle #2.

3. Check the earliest available manuscripts when a passage is disputed. Where verses or passages appear contradictory, manuscript evidence can help clarify whether the wording reflects the earliest available text. See Core Principle #4.

4. Support doctrine with more than one passage. A teaching should not rest on a single isolated verse. See Core Principle #3.

5. Read with literary and historical context in view. A text should be understood in both its immediate setting and its wider setting. Proper exegesis asks about literary, social, economic, historical, political, and cultural context, as well as the author and intended audience. See Core Principle #1.

6. Give priority to direct statements of Scripture. On any topic, direct teaching should carry more weight than passages that are more indirect or interpretive. See Core Principle #5.

7. Do not force literal meanings onto parables, allegories, or symbols. When a passage is symbolic, read it consistently as symbolic. Avoid treating one part as symbolic and another part as literal without good reason. See Core Principle #1.

8. Interpret symbolic passages through the wider witness of Scripture. Parables, allegories, and symbolic language should not be explained by personal theories, but through other passages of Scripture. See Core Principle #2.

9. Read an epistle as a real letter. A letter is best understood as a whole, ideally read in one sitting, so that its flow, argument, and purpose stay clear. See Core Principle #1.

10. Keep foundational teachings in view as you read. Hebrews 6:1-2 says: “The elementary teaching about the Christ… foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God, of instruction about washings and laying on of hands, and the resurrection of the dead and eternal judgment.” See Core Principle #1.